Current Status
The Board is facing significant public and staff criticism for approving a $12,000 retirement contribution for the Assistant Superintendent. The Board Chair has defended the decision, citing the administrator's extra work during a difficult budget year.
Overview
- On June 8, 2026, the Board Chair defended the retirement contribution amidst strong criticism from staff and the public, who cited recent budget cuts, staff reductions, and the closure of Kaler Elementary.
- The board unanimously approved a one-time $12,000 contribution to Assistant Superintendent Jo Prince's retirement plan on June 4, 2026, praising her for extensive work on the budget and school reconfiguration.
Perspectives
Board
- The Board Chair defended the payment, citing Dr. Prince's extensive extra work on the budget, labor contracts, and school reconfiguration.
- Board members unanimously approved the contribution, praising the Assistant Superintendent's performance during a difficult year.
Staff
- Union representatives, teachers, and retiring staff expressed deep disappointment with the board's priorities.
- Speakers contrasted the administrator's bonus with frozen budgets, program cuts, underpaid Ed Techs, and staff layoffs.
- They argued the decision eroded trust and showed a lack of shared sacrifice.
Citizens
- Parents and other public commenters called the decision "tone deaf" and a "slap in the face".
Key Resolutions & Votes
| Date | Motion | Result |
|---|---|---|
| June 4, 2026 | approve a one-time additional contribution of $12,000 to Assistant Superintendent Jo Prince’s 403(b) plan in recognition of the valued service she has provided this year and to authorize the Board Chair to work with legal counsel and Dr. Prince to craft a written agreement | Passed |
Meeting History
June 8, 2026
June 8, 2026 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Administrator Compensation Controversy
The Board Chair opened the meeting by defending a recent, un-agendized vote to provide a $12,000 retirement contribution to Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jo Prince, citing her extensive extra work on the budget, labor contracts, and school reconfiguration. This decision drew significant criticism during public comment from teachers and parents, who called it "tone deaf" and a "slap in the face" given recent budget cuts, staff reductions, and the closure of Kaler Elementary.
Public Comment on Budget and Morale
Multiple speakers, including retiring staff, teachers, and union representatives, expressed deep disappointment with the board's priorities. They contrasted the administrator's compensation with frozen budgets, cuts to student programs like music and composting, underpaid Ed Techs, and the emotional toll of staff layoffs, arguing it eroded trust and demonstrated a lack of shared sacrifice.
June 4, 2026
June 4, 2026 — Special Board Meeting — SPSD
Recognition for Assistant Superintendent
The board unanimously approved a one-time $12,000 contribution to Assistant Superintendent Jo Prince's retirement plan. Board members praised her for taking on extensive responsibilities related to the budget process and school reconfiguration during a difficult year.